Walthamstow, 7th November

It takes a moment to notice the double-door under each wider-than usual archway.  One leads up to a first floor 2-bed flat and the other to the same at ground floor level.  There are streets and streets of this stuff; unremarkable mostly, but with occasional arts-and-craftsy flourishes.  Street corners are handled skilfully, with sculpted gables giving visual strength and managing to emphasise the corner, whilst still following the English terrace peculiarity of not turning it fully; leaving glimpses into back gardens.

Built around the turn of the Century, by a local philanthropist as affordable housing for workers, these purpose-built flats have withstood the test of time. The rear garden is usually split so upstairs and downstairs get half each and the plan is surprisingly deep.  It follows the familiar L-shape of Victorian housing, but with a longer leg so the flats don't feel mean.  You can pick them up for under 200k and they still operate effectively as affordable housing for young families who want a garden, but can't afford a house.  Doesn't seem complicated, does it?